Shimkus Not Convinced Attack is Best Course

Published on September 3 2013 2:12 pm
Last Updated on September 3 2013 2:22 pm
Written by Greg Sapp

Local Congressman John Shimkus said he is not convinced that an attack on Syria is the best course for the United States to take.

(CONGRESSMAN JOHN SHIMKUS IN EFFINGHAM EARLIER THIS SUMMER)

Shimkus acknowledged that he supported the use of force in Afghanistan after the attacks of 9/11, and that he supported the use of force in Iraq. He said Tuesday that unless he sees evidence of "a real threat against the United States or our allies or unless the international community reaches a consensus "and leads", he's not convinced that a limited strike against Syria at this time is warranted.

Shimkus said, "If this is a crime against all international norms, where is the international community? Where is the United Nations? Where is the Arab League? Where is the European Union? These organizations cry for our help but are never willing to lead. When the United States leads, they are the first to chastise the United States for being unilateral. If any of these would lead and ask for the United States to assist, we would have a different debate. But they will not."